Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Jul 6: In the light of the decision taken by the Swamijis of the other seven Maths who have set conditions for returning the presiding deity of his Math including adopting a disciple, Sri Laxmivarateertha Swamiji of Shiroor Math here has approached the court. On Thursday July 5, he filed caveat in the court of the senior civil court here.

In the caveat, Shiroor Swamiji has named the Swaijis of six Maths except Sri Sugunendrateertha Swamiji of Puthige Math. The caveat affectively stalls efforts if any made by any which might be made by the Swamijis here to file suit in the court here seeking to pass strictures on the issue of handing over the idol of the presiding deity. The Swamiji wants that in such a case, the court should not issue ex-parte order without giving him an opportunity to oppose such a suit.

It is said that this caveat, which has a validity of three months, will make the aim of the other Swamijis to take action against Shiroor Swamiji inaffective.

As per the traditions prevalent in Sri Krishna Math since hundreds of years, Shiroor Swamiji had handed over four idols including that of the presiding deity of his Math, Lord Vittal, to Admar Swamiji a few months back when he was sick. This procedure is followed to ensure that the idols continue to get worshipped in the Swamiji's absence. Admar Math Swamiji in turn is said to have given it to Paryaya Palimaru Swamiji, after which the idols are being worshipped in Sri Krishna Math.

Sri Laxmivarateertha Swamiji recently had sought return of his idols. However, the other Swamijis who met land discussed the issues, and decided against handing back the idols unless Shiroor Swamiji adopts a disciple. This issue has the potential of developing into a major issue of confrontation between the Swamijis.